Introduction

Walking in forgiveness is an essential part of the Christian faith. It means releasing past hurts and allowing the power of love and grace to heal our wounds, promoting emotional and spiritual freedom. Through the lens of the Old Testament (in the American Standard Version) and the New Testament (in the English Standard Version), we can delve into the concept of forgiveness, its significance, and the journey towards achieving it.

The Biblical Perspective on Forgiveness

The Bible upholds forgiveness as a vital element in our relationships with God and others. In the Old Testament, God’s character is often depicted as forgiving. In Numbers 14:18, it says, “Jehovah is slow to anger, and abundant in lovingkindness, forgiving iniquity and transgression.” The Hebrew word used here for “forgiving” is “naśā,” implying carrying or bearing a burden, suggesting that God willingly takes our sin upon Himself.

In the Greek New Testament, forgiveness is often referred to with the Greek word “aphesis,” meaning “release” or “pardon.” Jesus encourages his followers to forgive others as they have been forgiven. In Matthew 6:14-15 (ESV), Jesus says, “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

The Healing Power of Forgiveness

Carrying the weight of resentment, bitterness, and unforgiveness can cause emotional and spiritual wounds. Forgiveness, on the other hand, allows for healing and restoration. It’s like applying a soothing balm to our hurts. The act of forgiving someone is not about denying the pain they’ve caused us, but about choosing to release them from the debt they owe us because of their wrongdoing.

The Connection Between Forgiveness and Freedom

Forgiveness is a pathway to freedom. When we forgive, we’re breaking the chains of resentment and bitterness that have kept us captive. The burden of unforgiveness can weigh heavily on our spirits, robbing us of peace, joy, and freedom. In contrast, forgiveness liberates us, allowing us to move forward in life unencumbered by past hurts.

In John 8:36 (ESV), Jesus tells us, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” This freedom is not only from sin and its eternal consequences but also from the spiritual bondage that comes from harboring unforgiveness.

The Role of the Holy Spirit in Forgiveness

The Holy Spirit plays an essential role in helping believers to walk in forgiveness. The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, nudging us towards repentance and forgiveness (John 16:8, ESV). The Holy Spirit also empowers us to forgive others, providing the strength and grace we need to extend forgiveness, even when it’s difficult.

The Journey Towards Forgiveness

Forgiveness is not always easy. It requires humility, courage, and a reliance on God’s grace. The first step in this journey is acknowledging the hurt we’ve experienced. This does not mean dwelling on it but rather confronting it honestly and bringing it before God in prayer.

The next step is to actively decide to forgive the person who has wronged us. This decision is not based on feelings, which may take time to change, but on an act of the will. It’s a choice we make in obedience to God’s command and in response to His forgiveness towards us.

Lastly, it’s important to pray for those who have hurt us, as Jesus instructed in Matthew 5:44 (ESV): “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

Conclusion

Walking in forgiveness is a transformative journey that allows for healing of wounds and finding freedom. It’s a spiritual practice that reflects God’s character and His forgiveness towards us. By choosing to forgive, aided by the Holy Spirit, we can experience the healing and freedom that comes with releasing past hurts and embracing God’s grace. The journey towards forgiveness may be difficult, but it’s worth every step, for in it, we find liberation and a deeper communion with God.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).